ISWAP Finance Chief Surrenders to Troops in Borno, Hands Over Rifle, Cash

A senior finance operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has surrendered to Nigerian troops in Borno State, handing over an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, a motorcycle and ₦40,000 in cash following sustained military offensives against terrorist enclaves.

The suspect surrendered to troops of the 3 Battalion under the 24 Task Force Brigade at about 6:45 a.m. on July 25 along the Ladari–Jegarawa–Tunokalia axis on the Gamboru–Wulgo Main Supply Route.

The Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Mohammed Goni, said in a statement on Sunday that the surrender followed a series of coordinated land and air operations that have intensified pressure on ISWAP positions across the North-East.

According to Goni, the surrendered operative handed over one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 101 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one motorcycle and ₦40,000 cash. He also surrendered alongside two male children.

Preliminary investigations identified the suspect as the chief finance operative of the ISWAP enclave at Jubillaram, where he allegedly managed the group’s finances and logistics.

“The individual is currently undergoing detailed profiling and interrogation to exploit actionable intelligence that will support ongoing operations and facilitate the targeting of remaining terrorist elements across the theatre,” Goni said.

He described the surrender as a significant blow to ISWAP, saying it reflected the gradual weakening of the group’s command structure, operational capability and logistical network under the sustained pressure of Operation Hadin Kai.

The military also disclosed that about 46 terrorists and their family members have voluntarily surrendered to troops in recent days as security forces continue offensive operations against insurgent hideouts.

According to Goni, the growing number of defections points to increasing disillusionment within terrorist ranks and signals mounting pressure on the insurgent group.

He reaffirmed Operation Hadin Kai’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security across Nigeria’s North-East and urged remaining insurgents to embrace the Federal Government’s non-kinetic initiatives by surrendering their weapons.

The military also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations.